a word for the engaged

Patti and I are wrapping up the interviews for our new book project – SPOUSE: Until death do us part. I can’t even begin to prepare you for the stories in this book that will pretty much liquify your heart. It has been one of the most amazing seasons that we’ve been privileged to participate in. There is something for everyone in these stories if you’re willing to absorb the wisdom. We are pretty stoked about the possibilities.

Jordan & Danielle 2009

Last week, I interviewed Jordan. He lost his first wife in 2011 because of a rare form of cancer. She was only 28 years old when she died. They had been married for 10 months when she was first diagnosed, and then died 10 months later. The overall story is hard to wrap your mind and heart around. The interview was brutally honest and beautiful, yet it had nightmarish elements. One specific question I asked Jordan centered on his advice for newly engaged couples. His words are indeed a WORD! Holy mackerel! Check out the seasoned thoughts of a guy who has been to hell and back:

“Take all your ideas of marriage that you gathered from romantic comedies, put them in a vita-blender, let it run for 10 minutes, and then throw them all away. Sprinkle them like the ashes of a burnt corpse. Your spouse will absolutely disappoint you if that is your expectation. Then you’re going to have to make a decision on whether or not you’re going to remain true to the promise of love that you made.”

DAAAMMMNNN! Yup, he nailed it. Honey, if you’re supporting a new rock that defines how much that guy really loves you, you might want to pay attention to what Jordan shared. Dude, if you’re about to purchase that rock… it applies to you too. I’m telling you, this is spot on! It’s not going to look like what you think, but it will only be what you two are willing to make it.

This project is full of this kind of insight about the gritty cost of real love and staying at the table no matter what. I can’t wait for you to meet these people. They’re really something.

Good word! How exciting to hear about your new book! I can’t wait to read what y’all have written. We have valued your and Patti’s words of wisdom in our marital relationship a great deal. I love that you felt led to put some of of your wisdom and life experience down on paper. No doubt, God will use this impact many relationships. Love y’all so much!